Detection and retrieval of ferromagnetic foreign particles in cosmetically sophisticated regions.

Foreign bodies should be removed from skin lacerations and wounds during the primary wound management stage. Detection can be performed by various investigative techniques, including plain radiography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasonography, and metal detectors. Removal of foreign bodies depends on the site of injury and the fragment material. Conventional retrieval is done by surgical exploration of the site of injury using additional incisions. This procedure may result in scar tissue and is unfavourable in cosmetically sensitive regions, such as the face, neck, or hands. Remaining particles can cause pain, neurologic symptoms, vascular compression, functional loss, abscesses or granulomas, infection, and cosmetic impairments, especially in uncovered regions of the body. Metallic artifacts are a contraindication for magnetic resonance imaging and may cause severe artifacts in CT. The following magnetic technique provides a minimally invasive alternative for removal and identification of ferromagnetic foreign bodies, especially in sensitive regions, such as the face or hand.